Round Table on Culture and Sustainable Development in SIDS and the Post 2015 Agenda

Transcription

1 Round Table on Culture and Sustainable Development in SIDS and the Post 2015 Agenda Nadi, Fiji, 9 July 2013

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3 Final Report Round Table on Culture and Sustainable Development in SIDS and the Post 2015 Agenda Nadi, Fiji, 9 July 2013

4 Published by Apia Office Cluster Office for the Pacific States PO Box 615 UN Compound, Matautu-uta Apia, Samoa UNESCO 2013 All rights reserved The designations employed and the presentation of material throughout this publication do not imply the expression of any opinion whatsoever on the part of UNESCO concerning the legal status of any country, territory, city or area or of its authorities, or concerning the delimitation of its frontiers or boundaries. The authors are responsible for the choice and the presentation of the facts contained in this book and for the opinions expressed therein, which are not necessarily those of UNESCO and do not commit the Organization. Apia Office is committed to widely disseminating information and to this end welcomes enquiries for reprints, adaptations, republishing or translating this or other publications. Please contact for further information. Coordinator: Akatsuki Takahashi Copy-editing: Ellie Meleisea Design/Layout: Prang Priyatruk Cover photos: UNESCO/A. Takahashi TH/Doc/Apia/13/031-E

5 Table of Contents I. Executive Summary II. Report III. Annexes Annex A: Opening Remarks by the UNESCO Office for the Pacific States Annex B: Opening Remarks by the UN ESCAP Pacific Centre Annex C: Presentations by participants a. Sevenaca Kaunisela, Permanent Secretary, Ministry of itaukei Affairs, Fiji b. Barbara Age, Director, Governance and Sustainable Development Division, Secretariat, Melanesian Spearhead Group c. Adi Meretui Ratunabuabua, Pacific Heritage Hub Manager, University of the South Pacific d. Glynis Miller, Trade Development Officer, Pacific Islands Forum Secretariat e. Elise Huffer, Cultural Advisor, Human Development Department, Secretariat of the Pacific Community..20 Annex D: Thematic Brief for the Third International Conference on SIDS (September 2014, Samoa) Annex E: Extracts from the Mauritius Strategy Annex F: The Hangzhou Declaration: Placing Culture at the Heart of Sustainable Development (2013) Annex G: Programme Annex H: Participants

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7 I. Executive Summary The Round Table on Culture and Sustainable Development took place in Nadi, Fiji, on 9 July The Round Table was organized by UNESCO and the UN ESCAP Pacific Centre ahead of the Pacific Regional Preparatory Meeting for the 2014 Third International Conference on Small Island Developing States (Nadi, July 2013). Some 20 participants representing countries, civil society organizations and development partners took part in the Round Table at which they shared information on the latest developments in the global debate on culture and sustainable development, in particular the Hangzhou Declaration and its implications for Small Island Developing States (SIDS). The Round Table ensured input by the cultural community into the Regional Preparatory Meeting and included discussion of the preparations for the Third International Conference on SIDS, which will be held in Apia, Samoa, between 1 and 4 September The participants of the Round Table drafted an Outcome Statement, which was presented at the Regional Preparatory Meeting. The draft was further circulated for comments and feedback from a wider circle of the cultural community in the Pacific through the Culturetalk electronic network before being finalized. The final version of the Round Table Outcome Statement is displayed below. Round Table Outcome Statement The participants and Pacific SIDS country representatives at the Roundtable on Culture and Sustainable Development in SIDS and the Post 2015 Agenda, held in Nadi, Fiji, on 9 July 2013, agree that: 1. The Pacific contains a wealth of languages, cultural practices and expressions, and that Pacific SIDS are highly culturally diverse. 2. The diversity and wealth can be leveraged as a driver and enabler of sustainable development by promoting sustainable economic growth and trade, helping reduce unemployment, poverty and other social issues, particularly among youth, improving individual and community wellbeing and fostering social cohesion. 3. To leverage the benefits of culture: a. Countries should put in place national cultural policies to strengthen the cultural sectors and mainstream culture across sectors and provide the necessary means for their implementation. Additionally, cultural institutions such as museums, archives and cultural centres should be supported to carry out their important roles, including the preservation of heritage and the promotion of the transmission of traditional knowledge through education. b. Governments, the private sector, non-governmental organizations, communities and other stakeholders should collaborate and recognize the value of culture, including heritage safeguarding, cultural industries and trade. c. Regional forums and strategies should be utilized to share information across countries, mainstream culture across regional work and strengthen the Pacific voice on culture in international dialogues on sustainable development. d. International standard setting instruments should be utilized as platforms for cooperation among SIDS. 1

8 4. For the Pacific Preparatory Meeting for the 2014 Third International Conference on Small Island Developing States (Nadi, July 2013), the participants recommend to: Recall the vision of the Leaders in Pacific Plan (2005) that states We treasure the diversity of the Pacific and seek a future in which its cultures, traditions and religious beliefs are valued, honoured and developed. Acknowledge the importance of culture as the foundation of well-being in the Pacific and which provides a sense of identity and continuity. Integrate culture into sustainable development strategies, since development occurs in diverse cultural contexts. Recognize the value of culture in inclusive socio-economic development by enhancing the safeguarding of heritage and the promotion of cultural industries. Consider the effects of the recent shift in Pacific culture from a focus on subsistence, strong family units and community towards consumerism and individualism; the linkages to breakdowns in governance; and a decline in traditional social protection systems. Highlight the role culture plays in forming meaningful partnerships, particularly at the national and regional levels, with shared responsibilities and values based on trust, commitment and consideration of all peoples. Reiterate that international development partnerships and programmes need to recognize, support, and invest in culture for sustainable development. 2

9 II. Report 1. The Round Table on Culture and Sustainable Development in SIDS and the Post 2015 Agenda took place at Radisson Blu Resort, Nadi, Fiji, on 9 July 2013, as a side event for the Pacific Regional Preparatory Meeting for the 2014 Third International Conference on Small Island Developing States (Nadi, July 2013). The Round Table was organized by the UNESCO Office for the Pacific States and the UN ESCAP Pacific Centre. The objectives of the Round Table were i) to share the latest developments in the debate in culture and sustainable development at the global level and to discuss their implications for SIDS, ii) to ensure inputs on culture and sustainable development to the Regional Preparatory Meeting (Nadi, July 2013), with a view to creating space for dialogue among leaders and policy makers, and iii) to strengthen the network between countries and development partners for better preparation for the 2014 Third International Conference on SIDS, to be held in Apia, Samoa, between 1 and 4 September At the opening session Akatsuki Takahashi delivered an opening speech on behalf of the UNESCO Office for the Pacific States in Apia as an introduction to the progress towards the UN 2014 Third International Conference on SIDS and the contribution of culture to sustainable development. Representing the UN ESCAP Pacific Centre in Suva, Jillian Campbell made an opening speech that noted that many of the national assessment reports submitted by the Pacific SIDS to the UN mention the importance of culture to the sustainable development of Pacific SIDS. 3. Session 1 focused on Culture and Sustainable Development in Pacific SIDS. In this session four presentations were made, under the Chair of Adi Meretui Ratunabuabua. Hon. Ambassador Gerson Jackson from the Federated States of Micronesia (FSM) reported progress in the establishment of cultural policy in the FSM as well as the safeguarding of Nan Madol and Lelu. He highlighted the important role of culture for governance of the FSM, which is communicated through the traditional leaders and the country s national and sub-regional coordination mechanisms. In his view, the synthesis report for the Preparatory Meeting did not adequately address issues relating to culture and sustainable development. He pointed out the need to mainstream culture into policies and plans, and to take a multi-stakeholder approach based on the understanding of culture as an enabler and driver for sustainable development. 4. Representing Fiji, Savenaca Kaunisela, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of itaukei Affairs, made a presentation on the situation and progress in Fiji as multicultural state. He highlighted the positive contribution of culture to sustainable development, in particular to poverty reduction by creating employment, particularly among youth, as well as the contribution of culture to the well-being of the community at large. He introduced new initiatives, including the Fiji Made and Buy Fiji campaigns, which aim to support the cultural and creative industries that are emerging in the country. He reported notable progress in the implementation of UNESCO conventions such as the 1972 World Heritage Convention and the 2003 Convention for the Safeguarding of Intangible Cultural Heritage (ICH) and he presented the outcomes of a successful national consultation on the 2005 Convention for the Protection and Promotion of the Diversity of Cultural Expressions, held in Suva in May Priorities identified in his presentation included, among others, the instigation of a national cultural forum, elaboration of cultural policies targeting sub-fields of the culture sector, promotion of an inclusive national curriculum framework at schools, and capacity building in relation to the cultural sector. 3

10 5. Letila Mitchell, Coordinator of the Pacific Arts Alliance, explained the background of the formation and development of the Pacific Arts Alliance, an alliance among cultural producers and artists with the aim of addressing challenges facing the community engaging in arts and creativity through networking and collaborative projects. She reiterated the need for support to the arts and to creativity in the Pacific and also to the organization for its further expansion. 6. Barbara Age, Director of the Governance and Sustainable Development Division of the Secretariat of Melanesian Spearhead Group (MSG), provided updates on the activities in culture among MSG members and its secretariat. She began by reporting progress in actions at the country and sub-regional levels in relation to the ongoing negotiations on the draft Treaty on Traditional Knowledge and Expressions of Culture being developed by the World Intellectual Property Organization. She then introduced an MoU signed by the Ministers of Culture on the occasion of the 11 th Festival of Pacific Arts (Solomon Islands, July 2012). This MoU, concluded among MSG members, addresses the need for enhanced cultural exchange and cooperation programmes. The MSG secretariat is currently developing its implementation strategies. Potential areas for cooperation identified under this MoU include, youth cultural ambassadors, a student exchange programme, an artists in residence programme and exchange programmes among museums and cultural centres. 7. Discussions were held on the living character of culture and cultural diversity in the Pacific community, where traditions and customs have had strong presence until today. This was considered as one of the reasons for the need for systematic documentation, mapping and inventorying of cultural expressions and practices, supported by the public sector and specialized agencies. Hon. Ambassador Gerson Jackson communicated the wish expressed by Micronesian traditional leaders regarding repatriation of artefacts and cultural objects, as well as the need for museum development in the FSM. UNESCO responded to this by introducing UNESCO s normative actions in the areas concerned. In this regard, the chairperson called for enhanced participation of Pacific SIDS in UNESCO s normative actions, in particular with regard to the three key conventions mentioned earlier (1972, 2003 and 2005). 8. Session 2 focused on progress in culture and sustainable development at the regional and international levels. Under the chair of Akatsuki Takahashi, three presentations were made. Adi Meretui Ratunabuabua introduced the Pacific Heritage Hub (PHH), which was established in February 2013 upon the request of the Pacific SIDS and is currently hosted at the University of the South Pacific. She provided a progress report on PHH activities, which have focused on capacity building, communication and partnership building. She also introduced the Mauritius Strategy in terms of its preparation and adoption, in which she was directly involved. Unique features of the Pacific heritage were highlighted, and the PHH s partnerships with SPREP and SPC were illustrated in her presentation. She concluded her presentation with the Pacific message on the inclusive community as a custodian of the heritage of humanity. 9. Elise Huffer, Cultural Advisor at the Secretariat of the Pacific Community, gave a presentation on the significance of the Hangzhou Declaration based on her first-hand experience in attending the Hangzhou International Congress, which was held in May Pointing out that the notion of development itself is cultural, she underlined the need to re-evaluate the concept of development and acknowledge the diversity of views and the diversity in culture and nature in the world. She further highlighted several important contributions that culture can bring to the necessary shift in development discourse, which include diversity, richness, intelligence and actions. She concluded by reiterating the significance of the Hangzhou Declaration, which places culture at the heart of sustainable development policies. 10. Glynis Miller, Trade Development Officer at the Pacific Islands Forum Secretariat, gave a presentation on cultural industries and sustainable development. She provided information on the ongoing assistance from developing partners to Pacific SIDS to support livelihoods, 4

11 skills development and trade development in relation to cultural industries. She presented progress on regional initiatives for advocating the protection of traditional knowledge and intellectual property rights within the framework of the Regional Cultural Strategy: Investing in Pacific Cultures ( ). She also highlighted some challenges in Pacific development cooperation, including donor driven development; the need for an integrated approach; the need for coordination and streamlining of development cooperation programmes; and the need for capacity building, especially women s empowerment. 11. Discussions were then held on a way forward and preparations for the 2014 Third International Conference, under the chair of Sipiriano Niamani, Principal Policy and Conventions Officer of the Department of National Heritage, Culture and Arts in the Fiji Ministry of Education. Hiro Morita-Lou, Chief of the SIDS Unit at UN DESA, provided information on the possible launch of the United Nations Year for SIDS (2014) and its linkage to the UN SIDS Conference. She also reminded the participants that partnership is a focus of the 2014 SIDS Conference. Frances Vakauta, Policy Consultant with the Department of National Heritage, Culture and Arts in the Fiji Ministry of Education drew attention to the difficulty of dividing heritage into different forms in the context of the Pacific, and called for maintaining an inclusive approach to dialogue among stakeholders in the lead up to the 2014 SIDS conference. Akatsuki Takahashi responded to her comments by providing information on cultural landscape and cultural space as heritage categories that could provide a holistic approach to heritage safeguarding under the World Heritage Convention and the ICH Convention. Adi Ratunabuabua drew attention to the areas of action in the Mauritius Strategy that required reporting from countries: i) developing and implementing cultural policies and frameworks supporting cultural industries, ii) developing measures to protect natural, tangible and intangible heritage, iii) improving institutional capacity, iv) supporting small and medium-sized cultural enterprises. 12. Based on the above discussions, a draft outcome statement was then presented orally by the secretariat. The draft statement was later circulated among participants of the Round Table, and further comments and feedback were sought from a wider circle of the cultural community in the Pacific through the Culturetalk electronic network. 5

12 III. Annexes Annex A: Opening Remarks by the UNESCO Office for the Pacific States Honourable Ambassador Jackson, distinguished delegates and experts, ladies and gentlemen, It is a pleasure to be here today at the Round Table on Culture and Sustainable Development in SIDS and the Post 2015 Agenda. On behalf of Sue Vize, Officer-in-Charge of the UNESCO Office for the Pacific States, I would like to thank all the participants for coming to attend this Round Table. Culture is about our perceptions, values and actions. Since sustainable development occurs within diverse cultural context, culture must be integrated into sustainable development strategies. Culture, as a sector, promotes economic growth through cultural and creative industries, which draw inspiration from heritage. As we all know, the Third UN SIDS International Conference will take place in Samoa in September Following the first conference in Barbados in the Caribbean region 20 years ago and the second conference in Mauritius in 2005, the 2014 conference will be once-a-decade opportunity for the SIDS, and might be once in 30 years opportunity for the Pacific region. At the same time, the international community is currently having a discussion on the post-2015 international development framework that will replace the Millennium Development Goals. In this context, the outcome document to be adopted at the 2014 SIDS conference in Samoa will have paramount importance as the collective voice of the SIDS for the post-2015 framework. Tomorrow, the Pacific SIDS Regional Preparatory Meeting will begin as part of the preparatory process for the 2014 SIDS conference. We need to make sure that contributions from the cultural community are made at the Preparatory Meeting. According to the provisional list of participants, however, there seem to be few cultural officials attending the Preparatory Meeting. This is the reason why UNESCO and UN ESCAP decided to convene this Round Table: to brief the delegates to the Preparatory Meeting on culture and sustainable development so that they can take part in the Preparatory Meeting as advocates for culture. At this Round Table, you are going to learn the latest developments in the global debate on culture and sustainable development, notably about the Hangzhou Declaration recently adopted at the International Conference in Hangzhou, China. You will also have an opportunity to listen to country presentations and presentations from civil society on progress in culture. The Pacific region is blessed with cultural diversity. Some 10 heritage sites and two intangible cultural heritage elements are inscribed on the international lists established by UNESCO conventions. They are the heritage of humanity and need to be protected and transmitted to future generations. The arts and creative industries are developing thanks to pioneering artists and NGOs in the Pacific. Heritage managers, museum curators, artists, composers, musicians, dancers, film directors, fashion designers and multimedia experts are all actively engaged in the culture sector in the Pacific. Their roles and contributions must be recognized and highlighted at the 2014 SIDS conference. It is my hope that this Round Table will help you better prepare for the Preparatory Meeting that will start tomorrow. Thank you for your attention. - Akatsuki Takahashi, Programme Specialist for Culture, UNESCO Office for the Pacific States 6

13 Annex B: Opening Remarks by the UN ESCAP Pacific Centre Excellencies, distinguished colleagues and experts, I am excited to be here today. I would like to thank UNESCO for initiating this important side event. This SIDS preparatory meeting provides an excellent opportunity for further integrating culture into the sustainable development agenda. Culture was already recognized in the BPOA/MSI. Culture was proposed as a third pillar of sustainable development by the UCLG in Mexico. However, culture is still undervalued across the Pacific. But, culture has been recognized in the Pacific through a number of initiatives: The Pacific Leaders in the Pacific Plan and the regional culture strategy: Investing in Pacific Cultures ( ). Culture was also recognized in many of the national assessment reports for this Pacific preparatory meeting. Fiji: Culture plays a pivotal role in Fiji s socio-economic development. Of particular relevance is its potential to address problems of unemployment and poverty faced by women and youth today. Cultural and creative industries can serve as tools for revenue generation and sustainable livelihoods. Government recognizes that investing in conservation of cultural resources, promoting cultural activities, traditional knowledge and skills are effective means to strengthen environmental sustainability and the social capital of communities. Republic of the Marshall Islands: Goal 9 of their 2018 Vision is Respecting culture and traditions. Cook Islands: The Cook Islands culture, society and way of life is under increasing strain from the influence of globalization, consumerism and increased exposure to foreign media via television and the internet. The increase in housing development is symptomatic of the shift in the socioeconomic structure of the country from a culture based on subsistence and practices associated with communalism, to an aggressive commercial and consumer culture with an individualistic focus on wealth maximization. Tuvalu: The world can afford to make everyone rich and avoid poverty. Why this is yet to be, shows that we are basically weak, greed prone, corruptible and incapable of shackling-off the culture of self. So it is to the self in you that we look to for the sharing, that is so necessary and much awaited by millions. Samoa: Focus on partnerships and community development that is linked to culture - The Samoan culture is fundamental to community development. The full value of culture should be recognized. The value of cultural industries as a way to promote sustainable economic growth and trade, helping reduce unemployment, poverty, and other social issues, particularly among youth. The value of culture for well-being. Culture is what makes us who we are and provides us with our individual identity. Culture is also the basis for our societies. It helps us to answer the question What is sustainable development? Culture fosters social cohesion in society, provides a basis for the formation of partnerships and a way forward for sustainable development for the Pacific. The SIDS meeting this week provides an opportunity for the Pacific to recognize these issues and take them forward to the global SIDS process and the post-2015 development agenda. Thank you. - Jillian Campbell, Statistician, ESCAP Pacific Office, Suva, Fiji 7

14 Annex C: Presentations by participants a. Sevenaca Kaunisela, Permanent Secretary, Ministry of itaukei Affairs, Fiji Culture and Sustainable Development p in Fiji Content Background Fiji ss Culture Sector Fiji Culture Development Policies Developed Implementation of UN Conventions The Way Forward Radisson Hotel, Nadi 09 Julyy 2013 Background Fiji s Culture Sector o Fiji a multi cultural country Enormous and for a long time been ad hoc, ad hoc marginalized and neglected o Fiji government concerns and support o Key Challenge understanding contribution Lack o Culture has potential address problems Other sectors have progressively realized the cross cutting nature of culture in Fiji and its role cross cutting in developmental priorities to Culture & Heritage Sector as an Enabler and Driver of Sustainable Development in Fiji Culture sector as a Driver for sustainable development through Specific contributions that it can make. Main stream culture into national social and economic development planning policies integration of culture within all development policies and programs. 8 Government Ministries/Departments responsibilities etc of and Cultural Related Policies Developed Protocol Key Discussion Area Fiji World Heritage Policy Approved by Cabinet in 2010, the policy looks at the protection and maintenance of potential world heritage areas in Fiji and also articulates on action areas emanating from the 1972 UNESCO World Heritage Convention which Fiji ratified in Draft National Language Policy A work in progress, it articulates on making the Itaukei language the national language, language of instruction in schools and ultimately the language of business. Developed, however yet to be approved by Cabinet. itaukei Festival Strategy Promotes the inauguration and continuum on annual basis of local festivals held at the provincial level to promote culture, art and heritage of the Itaukei people. The Strategy has been approved for implementation by the itaukei Affairs Board Draft Traditional Knowledge Developed to complement the draft traditional Knowledge and expressions of culture decree to look into communal intellectual property ownership, and look into the & Expressions Policy misappropriation i i ti and d exploitation l it ti off TK iin th the context t t off commercialising i li i culture. lt Th The policy is yet to be approved by cabinet. Draft Fiji Cultural Statistics Framework Valuing culture to ensure that its full potential as a source of economic growth and sustainable development is realised is a priority of the culture sector in 2013 and beyond. Fiji has in existent activities, industries and infrastructure which if researched would show the immense contribution the culture and heritage sector has had on Fiji s economy. The Cultural Statistics Framework will elevate this important ideal. The drafting of framework is currently in progress.

15 Draft Indigenous Cultural Research Framework Fiji Cultural Enhancement Guidelines National Intangible Cultural Heritage (ICH) Framework The draft research framework which has yet to be approved and complements the TKEC policy facilitates the provision of proper process for conducting research in Fiji s indigenous community, traditional protocols, ethics followed through in the conduct of research Currently being drafted, the cultural enhancement guideline is a practical toolkit for use to implement cultural projects/ activities and initiatives at the local level in the various communities in Fiji. It links existing cultural and culture related institutions, their activities and functions with grassroot initiatives. It is a step by step approach to enhancing the visibility of cultural activities, values, ethics and community participation in Fijian society. The framework is currently being drafted to facilitate the implementation of the 2003 UNESCO Convention for ICH in Fiji. There are technical and administrative matters that the convention stipulates and Fiji as a state party is obligated to pursue its realisation at the national level. Draft Fiji Cultural Also in its development phase, the strategy looks at the cultural industries in Fiji Industries Strategy the institutions involved, their roles, the creation of clusters, fostering partnerships between stakeholders in the industry, finances, production, market and the related. This is missing and needs to be realised in Fiji. Draft Fiji Cultural l This is currently in progress. The primary notion is to allow for the inclusion i of Education Strategy cultural studies in the national curriculum as a compulsory and examinable course as well. This is pursuance of both a theoretical and practical approach to the development of pedagogies relevant to the delivery of training in schools on cultural or ICH elements. Implementation of UN Conventions Ensure the cultural rights of indigenous and other communities of Fijians are protected through the ratification and implementation of international cultural rights instruments, including UNESCO Conventions: CONVENTION RATIFICATION ACHIEVEMENTS STATUS 1972 UNESCO Ratified in 1. The setting up of Fiji Tentative List for Convention 1990 possible world heritage sites in Fiji; for the Promotion 2. The cabinet approved National World and Heritage Committee with funding Protection of provisions; Cultural and Natural 3. The cabinet approved Fiji World Heritage Sites Heritage Policy; (World Heritage) 4. Establishment of Department as Secretariat to the Convention; 5. The finalising of a Fiji Heritage Decree; 6. The successful listing of Levuka as a World Heritage Site development of a Levuka Historical Port Town nomination Dossier and Levuka Management Plan. SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT IMPLEMENTED The principles of the convention are relevant to the sustainable development of cultural and natural heritage of Fiji. It promotes the identification, protection, conservation, presentation and transmission to future generations of important heritages that are significant and important to the people. This carries the spirit and promise of sustainability in its insistence that culture and nature form a single, closed continuum of the planet s resources, the integrated stewardship of which is essential to successful longterm sustainable development. 7. Funding commitment by Government. Cont 2003 UNESCO Convention for the Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage Ratified in UNESCO funded National consultation on the ICH Convention in Suva. 2. Preparation of first nomination for Best Practice Cultural Mapping of the itaukei community. 3. Development of itaukei LHT Policy; 4. Implementation of an Inventory for ICH of the itaukei i Community through h the Cultural l Mapping Programme; 5. Current development of a National ICH Framework; Globalisation is a major force to reckon with and with the increasing exploitation of local knowledge systems, the convention is essential in that it recognises (formally) the existence of ICH, and its importance in maintaining the identity and livelihood of communities of people. The Convention promotes sustainable development for the betterment t of the lives of the people through the promotion of community based customary practices to mitigate global problems such as climate change. Cont 2005 UNESCO Convention for the Promotion of Cultural Diversity Ratification Pending 1. Cultural Industries and Statistics unit set up at the Department of National Heritage; 2. UNESCO National Consultation on the 2005 Convention in Suva, Fiji. 3. Participation of Fiji delegation of artists and other practitioners at regional festivals Pacific Festival of Arts; international exhibitions World Expos; regional and national festivals/ exhibitions/ shows/ exchange. This is an important normative instrument of UNESCO as it promotes cultural diversity as a source of creativity, personal and community well being. It looks at culture as an enabler of sustainable development through the various social and economic industries community based tourism. 6. itaukei Festival Strategy approved for implementation in the 14 Provinces; 7. set up of a Special Revival Unit with Institute of itaukei Language & Culture (Ministry of itaukei Affairs) to facilitate the revitalisation of endangered ICH; 8. ICH elements incorporated in National Curriculum Framework work in progress. 4. National funding institutions established to promote cultural industries itaukei Trust Fund Board, Fiji Heritage Foundation. 5. Fiji Made Label for crafts and other cultural products developed, launched and now implemented by the Ministry of Trade and Industries. 9. Capacity building in various technical areas of staff video documentation, publications and digitization. 10. Funding Commitment by Government 6. Directories (Practitioners/ funding/ infrastructure) currently being developed. 7. Cultural Statistics emphasised and pursued at the national level. Cont Cont United Recognition of 1. Indigenous legislations targeting land, Nations the Itaukei administration system and Declaration on declaration fisheries boundaries drafted and the Rights of implemented; Indigenous Peoples 2. Ministry of itaukei Affairs set up. 3. itaukei Affairs Board Activities at the provincial level. 4. itaukei Trust Fund Board to look into investment and provision of funding assistance for the development of culture & heritage issues of the indigenous people; 5. Provision of scholarships to the indigenous people of Fiji to enhance indigenous education and scholastic attainment; 6. Cultural Mapping Programme to document and collect information on culture and heritage elements in local settings; The Declaration reinforces the two conventions above in as far as individual and collective rights of the Itaukei peoples, as well as their rights to culture, identity, language, employment, health, education and other issues are concerned. It also emphasizes the rights of Itaukei to maintain and strengthen their own institutions, cultures and traditions, and to pursue their development tin keeping with their own needs and aspirations. It promotes their full and effective participation in all matters that concern them and their right to remain distinct and to pursue their own visions of economic and social development. ILO Convention 169 Convention concerning Indigenous and Tribal Peoples in Independent Countries Ratified in 1. Land demarcation programme by the The convention is a forerunner of Ministry of itaukei Affairs; the above and articulates on the rights of indigenous people in the 2. Archaeological Impact Assessment to face of development. ensure that development concurs with Sustainability to be achieved the taboos and sanctity of indigenous through recognition and rights on land and their associated protection of indigenous causes heritage and cultural values; cultural, religious, civil and social rights of indigenous Fijians. It 3. Cultural Impact Assessment is now a part provides a standard framework of every Environmental Impact for addressing the economic issues that the indigenous people 4. Assessment done in Fiji. The Fiji Museum face. pursues this task as mandated under the POAPI and Fiji Museum Acts; 5. Resource Owners Committee established in provinces for advisory purposes and making recommendations pertaining to the protection and responsible use of tangible, natural resources and at the same time ensure that traditional knowledge is protected, preserved and sustained. 7. Native Lands and fisheries Commission Genealogy records and titular information. 9

16 Legal Framework Fiji had had also developed, and implement legal mechanisms to address cultural heritage issues in the country: itaukei Affairs Act itaukei Lands and Fisheries Act Fiji Museum Act POAPI Act (Fiji Museum) National ltrust of Fiji Act (and drevision) ii Draft Fiji Heritage Decree Draft Traditional knowledge and Expressions of culture Proposed Village By Laws Some of these legislations are still being drafted. Others require a review and new legislations need to be highlighted so as to enhance and promote their effectiveness in sustaining culture in Fiji. Mauritius Strategy for Further Implementation As part of its submission for the SIDs preparatory Meeting the Department of National Heritage had prepared a submission to Ministry of Strategic Planning based on to the four main strategic areas listed under the Culture Chapter in the Mauritius Strategy: Developing and implementing national cultural policies and legislative frameworks to support the development of cultural industries and initiatives in such areas as music, art the literary and culinary arts, fashion, festivals, theatre and film, sports and cultural tourism; Developing measures to protect the natural, tangible and intangible cultural heritage and increase resources for the development and strengthening of national and regional cultural initiatives; Improving institutional capacity for the advocacy and marketing of cultural products and the protection of intellectual property; Seeking venture capital and access to credit for small and medium sized cultural enterprises and initiatives, including through the establishment of culture support funds in Small Island developing states regions. ** The tabular matrix further articulates on initiatives and projects that best summaries the key progress that the culture sector has been pursuing in the last 3 years. Way Forward Culture & Sustainable Development in Fiji o Despite the progress and achievements of the sector, there are still room for improvement. o Gaps and challenges to be addressed so that culture is holistically covered in all sectors and activities of the economy. Some ofthe majorpriorities ofthe Sector include: Instigation of a National Culture Forum bring all stakeholders together to discuss matters of mutual interest and also provide the best way forward for inclusive sustainable economic development. This is also to ensure that culture is embedded in the various sectors of government spearheading through strategic planning. Cont Introduce more programs and initiatives to leverage culture as a means to reduce poverty, provide economic opportunities for communities especially women and youths, and enhance value including the safeguarding and transmission of culture to future generations Facilitate the implementation of international conventions and treaties so as to enhance the continuity and safeguarding of cultural expressions of the different ethnic groups in Fiji, j, especially the indigenous people itaukei Cont Foster the development and implementation of national policies, frameworks and strategies to necessitate that rights ih of resource owners are intact and they proper assessment of any development plans is pursued before these are given the green light for execution. The promotion of a culture inclusive National Curriculum framework for Fiji so that students are given the opportunity to learn, adapt, research local knowledge, skills and applications. Cont Leverage the Department tof National Heritage, Culture & Arts to Ministry capacitated with appropriate resources physical, human and financial. Capitalise on funding and investment opportunities to enhance cultural activities in the sector including cultural infrastructure enhanced. Cont The strengthening th and capacity building of those involved in the culture sector in the areas of legal drafting, intellectual property, cultural impact assessment, technical fields such as video technician, digitisation, anthropology, ethnology, archaeology and others. Vinaka vakalevu Any Questions? 10

17 b. Barbara Age, Director, Governance and Sustainable Development Division, Secretariat, Melanesian Spearhead Group Article 2: The Purpose of the MSG is to promote and strengthen intermembership trade, exchange of Melanesian culture, traditions and values,, sovereign g equality, q y, economic and technical cooperation between states and the alignment of policies in order to further MSG members shared goal of economic growth, sustainable t i bl d development, l t good d governance and d security. it The Treaty on TK & EC contains some important features such as the exclusive l i rights i h to authorise h i exploitation, l i i scope for f cooperation i and d collaboration, database on TK and EC and responsibilities under the Treaty. Purpose To protect MSG owners and holders of TK and EC against abuse, mismanagement and misappropriation of their TK and EC. The Treaty supports MSG member Government s initiative to implement National Traditional Knowledge Laws. The Treaty Th T t further f th allows ll for f the th establishment t bli h t off a National N ti l Competent Authority which will be responsible for the implementation of the provisions of the Treaty. The National Competent Authority will be entrusted with the tasks of awareness-raising, education, guidance, monitoring, registration, dispute resolution, enforcement and other activities l d to the h protection i di i lk l d and d related off traditional knowledge expressions of culture. o o o Endorsed for signing by Leaders in March 2012 at their Special Summit in Suva, Fiji Signed in July 2012 by the Ministers of Arts & Culture in Honiara, Solomon Islands Updates p from members: In Solomon Islands a local lawyer was engaged through the support of the World Intellectual Property Organisation (WIPO) and Secretariat of the Pacific Community (SPC) to draft the national legislation on TK and EC in preparation for the 11th Festival of Pacific Arts in Honiara. Concurrently, the G Government off Solomon S l Islands I l d has h developed d l d the h national i l cultural l l policy li which is before cabinet. Fiji j has undertaken initiatives at the national level to implement p the Framework Treaty on TK & EC. A draft legislation on TK & EC was completed in 2011 and is before the State Law Office for vetting. The draft submitted e FLNKS S informed o ed tthe e meeting eet g tthat at tthe ed a t legislation eg s at o is s to be sub tted to the French State Council for consideration and submitted further to the Congress of New Caledonia. The need to encourage cultural exchange program (example, volunteer schemes, youth and students etc.) between members and the formalization of such program p g through g a Memorandum of Agreement; g The need to promote cultural cooperation through language a guage p program og a (e (example, a p e, estab establishment s e t of o language a guage institutes etc.); and Agreed to recommend to MSG Governments to support and assist the Solomon Islands in hosting the 2012 Festival of Pacific Arts and Culture. 11

18 The following strategies were proposed p to help implement cultural cooperation within Melanesia: i. MSG Members to integrate Cultural Cooperation into their National Cultural Policy, ii. Members to identify specific activities to sustain cultural cooperation within MSG, iii. MSG Secretariat to help facilitate national cultural proposals through identifying and securing financial and technical support to develop national cultural policy, iv. MSG members to establish a volunteer Service scheme of experts and technical people to respond to arising needs of member countries. This is open for all sectors of the community. v. MSG members and the Secretariat to establish closer ties with National NGOS and Civil Society Organizations in member countries to help formulate social and cultural exchange programs between members. Youth Cultural Ambassadors, Arts and Culture students exchange programs, Artists in Residence Program (including musicians), Museum and Cultural Centre s exchange programs (photos exhibition, i art and crafts, roving exhibition) Live-in in Cultural Programs (at community grass-roots level...) Technical support from member countries through provision of experts in festival organizing and Management to work closely with the local organizing committee; Some funding assistance in preparation of Festival infrastructure and awareness campaign, e.g. towards the construction of the National Heritage Center Infrastructure, promotions and awareness, etc; Technical Cooperation between members in terms of providing TV Personnel and equipment for live telecast of Festivals, etc Member countries help meet costs of their artists and materials to build their traditional huts at the main festival village. Fiji is working collaboratively with SPC in developing their strategy and they stressed that national strategies be home grown with minimal external influence. They made specific mention of Goal 4 of the Regional Strategy: Expand the Pacific Cultural l Industries which h is connected to developing and growing the country s economies through the development of cultural industries. Members noted from the presentation, the gap in human capacity in Culture in effectively implementing their national Cultural Strategies. Solomon Islands is in the process of setting up an Arts Council of Solomon Islands, a Statutory body and consulting Fiji and PNG for assistance. 5 th Melanesian Arts & Culture Festival to be held in 5 th Melanesian Arts & Culture Festival to be held in PNG in

19 c. Adi Meretui Ratunabuabua, Pacific Heritage Hub Manager, University of the South Pacific OUR HERITAGE JOURNEY Many Islands, One Purpose, One Destination Adi Meretui Ratunabuabua b Lia Korodrau Manager Tema Waqainabete Project Assistant Project Assistant Mary Rokonadravu Communications Specialist SID s 2004 Mauritius Meeting and Progress World Heritage Process Challenges Pacific Heritage Hub (UNESCO) Our Common Ground: How can we work together? CULTURE Small island developing states recognize the importance of the cultural identity of people and its importance for advancing sustainable development, and they also recognize the need to develop cultural industries and initiatives ii i that offer significant ifi economic opportunities ii for national and regional development. Cultural industries and initiatives are viewed as an area in which small island developing States have comparative advantage; they have the potential to diversify small island developing states economies and build their resilience while they adjust to changes in the global economy.small island developing States are committed, with the necessary support of the international community to: Developing the implementing national cultural policies and legislative frameworks to support the development of cultural industries and initiatives in such areas as music, art the literary and culinary arts, fashion, festivals, theatre and film. Sports and cultural tourism ; Developing measures to protect the natural, tangible and intangible cultural heritage and increase resources for the development and strengthening of national and regional cultural initiatives Improving institutional capacity for the advocacy and marketing of cultural products and protection of intellectual property ; Seeking venture capital and access to credit for small and medium sized cultural enterprises and initiatives, including through the establishment of culture support funds in small island developing States regions. IMPLEMENTATION Culture and Development: take action to promote the development of cultural industries in Small Island developing States, including through cultural exchanges among Small Island developing States and other countries Sustainable Capacity Development and Education for Sustainable Development Integrating national sustainable development strategies and environment education within the education system, with particular support from the United Nations Education Scientific and Cultural Organization and regional environment organization and in the framework of the Decade of Education for Sustainable Development,

20 Convention Concerning the Promotion of World Cultural and Natural Heritage 1972 (World Heritage Convention WHC) World Heritage Action Plan World Heritage in the Pacific Action Plan It took a dam to unite the world toward saving heritage and designing a convention Convention on the World s Intangible Cultural Heritage 2003 ASWAN DAM ON NILE RIVER THREATENING HISTORIC SITES BEFORE AFTER Source: dam large image Source: Source: World War I ( ) A lot of damage to cultural and natural sites; world recognised need to protect sites Egypt (mid-1960s) Aswan Dam pyramids endangered world gathered for support Natural Sites 19% 188/962 Mixed Sites 3% 29/962 WHC 1972 WHC Global Strategy 1994 too many sites in Europe and other regions Encourage under-represented regions of the world 2007 Pacific Appeal Articulating Pacific vulnerabilities and challenges (Tongariro NZ and Maupiti, French Polynesia) Cultural Sites Natural Sites Mixed Sites 2012 UNESCO Pacific Heritage Hub Cultural Sites 77% 745/962 14

21 TANGIBLE HERITAGE Cultural: Settlements, buildings Natural: Ocean, Land, Wetlands, Reefs, Mountain Terrain, Grasslands Mixed: has both Kiribati Phoenix Islands Protected Area Marshall Islands Bikini Atoll Nuclear Site Palau Rock Islands, Southern Lagoon Solomon Islands Lake Tegano, East Rennell PNG Kuk Early Agricultural Site Vanuatu Chief Roi Mata s Domain France Reefs and Lagoons of New Caledonia Chile Rapa Nui Levuka Historical Port Town LAST Week Vanuatu - Sand Drawings (ICH) Tonga Lakalaka (ICH) Source: 15